On 10 October, President Tsai Ing-wen vowed to build a stronger Taiwan by boosting the country’s national security, economic competitiveness and social safety net in her National Day address. In the face of dramatic changes in international politics and economics and the expansion of China’s influence, the country will pursue a strategy of stability, adaptability and progress rooted in national strength, the president stated. “The best way to defend Taiwan is to make it indispensable and irreplaceable to the world.”
The president pointed out that China’s diplomatic offensive and military coercion have seriously challenged the cross-strait status quo, and these actions have caused concern in the global community. Taiwan will not be provoked into confrontations that endanger cross-strait relations, but will remain composed and work to protect the nation’s free and democratic way of live, safeguard its sustainable development and maintain peace and stability, she stated. “In facing changing international circumstances, our strategic choice is clear, and that is to staunchly defend freedom, democracy and the market economy,” she added. President Tsai went on to stress the government’s objectives in R&D, cooperation with New Southbound Policy countries and the economy and highlighted the positive results of key policies, including the five-plus-two industrial innovation program and forward-looking infrastructure development program.
The address was delivered in front of the Presidential Office Building in Taipei City with several high-level local officials in attendance, including Vice President Chen Chien-jen, Legislative Yuan President Su Jia-chyuan and Premier Lai Ching-te. Many distinguished foreign guests were also present, including Paraguay President Mario Abdo Benitez, St Lucia Prime Minister Allen Chastanet and St Kitts and Nevis Governor-General Sir S.W. Tapley Seaton, as well as delegations from Germany, Japan, South Africa and the US.